36 Hours In Hamburg

Hamburg leaves a lasting impression. With its maritime history, handsome buildings, and relaxed pace along the water, it’s a city that encourages you to slow down and enjoy. As Germany’s second-largest city and one of Europe’s busiest ports, it blends old and new with ease. You’ll find centuries-old canals beside modern cultural landmarks. If your cruise ship calls here, you’ll discover plenty of rewarding ways to spend your day ashore.

How Far is Hamburg Cruise Port from the City Centre?

Cruise ships dock at Steinwerder or Altona. Steinwerder is the larger terminal, around 8 kilometres from the city centre. The trip takes about 20 minutes by taxi or shuttle. Altona is closer, roughly 5 kilometres away, so you’ll reach the centre even faster. Both terminals link well with public transport, making transfers simple. You can begin exploring Hamburg without delay.

Begin at the Harbour – The Beating Heart of the City

Hamburg’s harbour is the soul of the city. The Landungsbrücken piers give sweeping river views and a glimpse of its seafaring spirit. Ferries, sailing ships, and tour boats drift past on the Elbe.
A harbour cruise is one of the best ways to start. Boats glide by working docks, historic vessels, and the dazzling Elbphilharmonie. The guided commentary shares fascinating stories, making the trip both scenic and informative.

Step Back in Time at the Speicherstadt

From the harbour, stroll to the Speicherstadt. This UNESCO-listed warehouse district is one of Hamburg’s treasures. Red-brick buildings stand above quiet canals, reflecting light in the water.
Inside, you’ll find attractions like Miniatur Wunderland. This vast model railway is the largest in the world. The detail and craftsmanship impress visitors of all ages. Even if railways aren’t your passion, the artistry is unforgettable.

Take in the Views from the Elbphilharmonie

The Elbphilharmonie, or “Elphi,” is a modern icon. Its glass design, shaped like waves, rises above an old warehouse, symbolising Hamburg’s mix of tradition and progress.
You don’t need a concert ticket to enjoy it. Take the lift to the Plaza viewing platform for free, timed access. The views stretch over the harbour, river, and city skyline. It’s a highlight for anyone wondering what to do in Hamburg.

Explore the Altstadt – Hamburg’s Historic Core

Hamburg’s Altstadt, or Old Town, is compact, walkable, and full of charm. The Rathaus, or City Hall, is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, with a richly decorated façade and an impressive central courtyard.

Nearby, Mönckebergstraße offers a blend of traditional and modern shopping, while the St. Nikolai Memorial, a former church left partially in ruins during the Second World War, provides both a moving historical insight and a tower with far-reaching views. Lifts make access to the top straightforward for most visitors.

Discover St. Pauli and the Reeperbahn

While St. Pauli is well-known for its lively nightlife, during the daytime it offers a very different experience. You’ll find interesting cafés, small shops, and colourful murals that tell the story of this unique district.

If you happen to be in Hamburg on a Sunday morning, the Fischmarkt is a tradition worth experiencing. It has been running for over 300 years and still hums with life, with traders selling fresh fish, fruit, flowers, and more. Live music adds to the atmosphere, making it a memorable stop.

Pause by the Lakes and Parks

For a quieter moment, the Binnenalster and Aussenalster lakes offer peaceful walking paths, boat rides, and comfortable spots to sit and take in the scenery. The lakeside cafés are perfect for a coffee and a slice of cake while watching the sailboats pass by.

Another beautiful green space is Planten un Blomen, a city park filled with themed gardens and water features. During the summer months, the evening water-light concerts are a delight, blending music and illuminated fountains in a relaxing setting.

Where to Eat in Hamburg

If you are wondering where to eat in Hamburg, you’ll be pleased to know the city has a rich culinary scene. Seafood is, naturally, a speciality, with dishes such as fresh North Sea fish or Labskaus – a traditional sailor’s meal of corned beef, mashed potato, beetroot, and a fried egg.

For casual dining, the Portuguese Quarter near the harbour is a charming spot, with restaurants serving delicious grilled fish and seafood stews. For something sweet, try a Franzbrötchen, a cinnamon pastry that is a local favourite and a perfect mid-morning treat. Hamburg also boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants for those wishing to indulge in a fine dining experience.

Making the Most of Your Time

If you have only a few hours, it’s wise to choose two or three main attractions, such as the harbour, Speicherstadt, and Elbphilharmonie. Hamburg’s public transport system is efficient and easy to navigate, and many areas are also pleasant to explore on foot at a leisurely pace.

The weather can be changeable, even in summer, so a light jacket is always a good idea. With its welcoming atmosphere, fascinating history, and varied sights, Hamburg offers a rewarding day for cruise visitors who enjoy exploring at their own pace.

Cruise Lines that Visit Hamburg

Hamburg is a popular port of call, and many of the world’s leading cruise lines include it on their Northern Europe itineraries. You’ll find everything from luxury voyages to family-friendly sailings stopping in this vibrant German city.

• Cunard Line – Famous for its iconic Transatlantic voyages, Cunard often includes Hamburg on itineraries aboard Queen Mary 2, offering guests the chance to combine elegance with discovery.
  
• P&O Cruises – With departures from the UK, P&O Cruises frequently call at Hamburg as part of cultural explorations across Northern Europe and Scandinavia.
  
• MSC Cruises – MSC offers modern ships and diverse itineraries, many of which feature Hamburg as a gateway to explore both the city and beyond.
  
• Princess Cruises – Princess itineraries often include Hamburg within wider Baltic and Northern Europe journeys.
  

Whether you’re seeking luxury, culture, or family adventures, Hamburg is well-served by a variety of cruise lines, ensuring you’ll find the perfect fit for your holiday.

River Cruises in and around Hamburg

While Hamburg is best known as one of Europe’s great ocean cruise ports, it also enjoys a strong connection to river cruising. The city sits on the River Elbe, which flows from the Czech Republic through Germany and into the North Sea, offering scenic journeys and cultural discoveries along the way.

• Elbe River Cruises – Several river cruise lines sail the Elbe, with Hamburg often serving as a starting or ending point. These cruises take in charming towns like Dresden and Magdeburg, combining history with stunning river landscapes.
  
• Danube & Elbe Combinations – Some itineraries link Hamburg with Europe’s other famous rivers via overland connections, allowing guests to experience both the Elbe and the Danube in a single extended voyage.
  

River cruises provide a more intimate way to explore Germany, offering close-up views of riverside towns and cities that large ocean ships simply can’t reach. With Hamburg as your gateway, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – ocean cruising excitement and river cruising charm.

Book a Northern Europe Cruise with Bolsover Cruise Club

Experience Hamburg at a pace that suits you as part of one of our carefully designed Northern Europe cruise itineraries. Or choose one of our European Cruise and Stay holidays to enjoy more time in this remarkable city, from its storied harbour to its serene parks.

If you would like to include Hamburg in your next holiday, please contact us and our friendly team will assist, ensuring every detail is planned to your comfort. And if you would like to discover other inspiring destinations, our cruise news section offers a wealth of ideas for your future travels.